2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Eau Claire, WI vs Ames, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Ames older or younger than people in Eau Claire?
- The Median Age in Ames is 9.0 years younger than in Eau Claire.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ames or Eau Claire?
- Ames housing costs are 12.3% less expensive than Eau Claire housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ames or Eau Claire?
- The average commute for residents of Ames is 0.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Eau Claire.

Things to do in Eau Claire?
Eau Claire, Wisconsin is a dynamic city located in the Chippewa Valley. With its rolling hills, lush forests and tranquil rivers, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore attractions such as Carson Park, the UW-Eau Claire campus, and Artisan Forge Studios. The downtown area offers plenty of dining options and entertainment spots like The Volume One Gallery and State Theatre. From peaceful retreats to big city thrills, Eau Claire has something for everyone!

Things to do in Ames?
Ames, Iowa is a lively city located in the heart of central Iowa. This bustling city offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the picturesque Reiman Gardens or the historic Octagon Center for the Arts. Residents here also enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities at Hills Memorial Park or Brookside Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Ames their home.

 Eau Claire, WIAmes, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock65,522329,725,481
 Median Income$60,562  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$272,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.65  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Eau Claire    27 Reviews

I was born in Spokane, Washington but we moved to Eau Claire when I was no more than 2 years old, so you can bet that all I remember is Eau Claire and Chippewa. I went  More

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Progressive business for its  More

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Over 10 years ago

I am considering moving there because summer in Denver CO metro area is too hot to me although it is dry. Eau Claire seems to be a best place to move but my most  More

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Reviews for Ames    12 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

Hello, I am in San Jose Ca, but am seriously thinking of moving somewhere much slower for a better quality of living. I've just turned 59, so I'm kinda preparing for  More

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Over 13 years ago

Like every other city Ames has both good and bad points. The good points are: low cost of living, very friendly people, lots of outdoor activities and quite a few events  More

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Ames enjoys a high quality of life at a very affordable cost, substantially lower than many other communities. The presence of Iowa State University, a large (28,000  More

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